Author: Bridget Benevides
I’ve heard raving reviews of EDM festivals, about the inclusivity, the energy, the respect, the beats that are so loud that you can feel it in your chest… but really nothing could have prepared me for what I experienced at FreakNight on October 26th. My senses were overwhelmed, my eyes were amazed, and my heart was happy.
Image courtesy of USC Media Crew
Because this was a Halloween rave, everyone in attendance was in some sort of creative costume. I loved walking around and seeing smiles on everyone’s faces, the skip in their step, and the gleam in their eye. Mostly, I loved how comfortable I felt in such a new environment; never once did I feel judged or out of place, I made conversations with strangers and shared smiles with everyone I passed, and I think this is one thing that is so unique about rave culture: a beautiful acceptance of everybody is one of the reasons people love to come back, I think. And it definitely enhanced my experience as a timid first timer.
Image courtesy of USC Media Crew
FreakNight was circus themed, and I was blown away by the intricacy of the decorations. I have only ever been to the WaMu theater once before so walking in and seeing the red hues, the sparkling lights, the giant sea urchin looking balls hanging from the ceiling, (plus much more) took me by surprise. There were carnival games and rides (which I chose not to partake in), and a warm buzz of energy filled the space.
Image courtesy of USC Media Crew
All in all, there were 21 artists who came to FreakNight across three stages: Mainstage, Bass Asylum, and Trance Stage. I mostly bounced back and forth between the Mainstage and the Bass Asylum, but I did hear really good things about the Trance Stage. The artists I saw were Marshmello, Yellow Claw, Space Jesus, Knife Party, Steve Aoki, Arty, Pegboard Nerds. My personal favorite was Marshmello, who was the headliner, because I found his music the easiest for me to vibe to. The music at the Bass Stage was good, but so loud that I thought my heart was going to get forget how to beat (quite an experience). But Marshmello played some throwback songs and remixed them to be his own which I enjoyed. Of course, the lights at each of the stage were incredibly bright, colorful and intricate, so even though the crowd was so thick that I couldn’t see the performer the visual experience was mesmerizing. I really cannot say that there was a negative encounter in my night; that being said, I don’t think I will be a “raver” but FreakNight was a night I will never forget.
Image courtesy of USC Media Crew
I want to say a special thank you to all of the artists, the WaMu Theater staff, the security staff, the medical team, Conscious Crew, vendors, and every volunteer that spent countless hours putting FreakNight together for the thousands of people who attended. I felt very safe as much of that was due to the effort of these individuals.
BRIDGET BENEVIDES | Did you feel it? | KXSU Music Reporter